NEW YORK CITY — August 21, 2026
New York City has been hit by torrential rainfall, triggering flash flooding in several parts of the city and causing significant disruption to roads, public transport and daily life.
The severe weather moved across the city on Thursday, August 20, with intense downpours overwhelming drainage systems and leaving water covering streets, highways and other low-lying areas. NYC Emergency Management had warned residents ahead of the storms that rainfall could produce dangerous and rapidly developing flash floods.
Flooding was reported in several parts of the city, while water also entered subway areas. New York City's official emergency notification system later reported localized flooding and urged residents to avoid flooded roads and buildings and to stay out of flooded basements.
The rainfall was particularly intense in some areas. Reports indicated that Central Park recorded around 2.31 inches, LaGuardia Airport about 2.25 inches, while parts of the Bronx received more than 2 inches. Staten Island and Brooklyn also recorded close to 2 inches of rain.
The flooding caused major travel problems. Authorities reported flooding-related delays on the Jackie Robinson Parkway, while Metropolitan Transportation Authority services experienced delays and changes because of flooding conditions.
The storms also affected aviation. John F. Kennedy International Airport remained open, but more than 160 flights were cancelled on Thursday as severe weather affected the region.
The wider Northeast was also battered by severe storms, with heavy rain, damaging winds and flooding reported across parts of the region. A suspected tornado caused significant damage on Long Island, while emergency crews elsewhere carried out rescues from flooded vehicles.
New York City officials have urged residents to remain cautious during periods of heavy rainfall. People living in basement apartments have been advised to be ready to move to higher floors or safer locations if flooding develops. Officials have also warned residents never to walk or drive through floodwater, as its depth can be difficult to judge and submerged hazards may be present.
The latest flooding has once again highlighted New York City's vulnerability to increasingly intense rainfall events, particularly in densely built urban areas where drainage systems can quickly become overwhelmed.
Authorities continue to monitor weather conditions and are urging New Yorkers to stay informed, avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather and follow emergency instructions.
As the clean-up begins, the message from officials is clear: floodwater can rise quickly, and residents should put safety ahead of travel when torrential rain strikes.
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